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The North Riding County Football Association, who investigated that case, say its proud of its current success at developing quality referees.

And to support them, the North Riding FA is determined to protect its officials and is introducing a ‘Get Tough’ policy on anyone who abuses, offends, insults or intimidates a referee.

It will introduce:

• Tough sanctions against all offenders

• A 24 hour referee hotline

• Mentors assigned to all referees

• Unannounced visits to games by North Riding FA observers

• Monday morning referee clinics to help support officials

• Education programmes for clubs

• Regular training/support with four local Referee Association groups

Punishments for offenders include ten year bans from the game for those found guilty of assaulting a match official, and, six month bans with £150 fines for those guilty of being abusive or threatening to referees.

A referee hotline has been set up for North Riding match officials to help support those reporting any incidents of such behaviour.

Chairman Len Scott said: “Our recent referee development programme has been very successful and we are determined to protect this. While we hear of problems nationally, we’re proud to see North Riding FA buck this trend and we will not stand for anyone misbehaving towards our match officials.”

Ross Joyce

Referee development officer Ross Joyce said: ““Refereeing 22 players on a field can be a lonely position to be in and as a result, North Riding has decided to offer our match officials increased support.

“We are seeing great progress in the county’s referees and we are determined to do everything we can to see that continue.”

North Riding County FA is not immune from problems. There has been a slight increase in reports of poor behaviour towards match officials in the past year, something North Riding FA is determined to reduce.

John Campbell, Chairman of North Riding’s Referee Committee said: “The County FA expects to make over 300 unannounced visits to grassroots games in the next year.

“Observations will be made on behaviour towards referees as we strive to set a standard for all players, club officials and spectators to follow. We do not want to see trends being reported elsewhere develop here.”

The local FA says that it’s successful referee programme has seen fully booked training courses, female referee recruitment at an all-time high, and a 97% coverage of Saturday adult games - exceeding the 90% national target.

And as part of the campaign, the FA will also hold its referees to account - keeping an eye on reports being submitted on time, and making sure their performances and conduct are of an acceptable standard.